If you know me, I rarely like to be influenced into buying/reading/watching things. Thus, I’m usually way behind the crowd. The House in the Cerulean Sea was no different. I had seen readers raving over it on bookstagram, and I just didn’t think anything of it. Then, some of the wonderful ladies were talking about it at book club, and one of my friends there was kind enough to let me borrow it. I am so glad she did. Thanks, Kelley!

The House in the Cerulean Sea

A magical island. A dangerous task. A burning secret.

Linus Baker leads a quiet, solitary life. At forty, he lives in a tiny house with a devious cat and his old records. As a Case Worker at the Department in Charge Of Magical Youth, he spends his days overseeing the well-being of children in government-sanctioned orphanages.

When Linus is unexpectedly summoned by Extremely Upper Management he’s given a curious and highly classified assignment: travel to Marsyas Island Orphanage, where six dangerous children reside: a gnome, a sprite, a wyvern, an unidentifiable green blob, a were-Pomeranian, and the Antichrist. Linus must set aside his fears and determine whether or not they’re likely to bring about the end of days.

But the children aren’t the only secret the island keeps. Their caretaker is the charming and enigmatic Arthur Parnassus, who will do anything to keep his wards safe. As Arthur and Linus grow closer, long-held secrets are exposed, and Linus must make a choice: destroy a home or watch the world burn.

An enchanting story, masterfully told, The House in the Cerulean Sea is about the profound experience of discovering an unlikely family in an unexpected place—and realizing that family is yours.

My Thoughts

Oh my word. I was absolutely missing out. Before I get into anything, I highly recommend that you do whatever it takes to get this book and read it ASAP. It’s on my list to purchase once my book-buying ban is over.

The House in the Cerulean Sea is one of the most beautiful books that I have ever read in my entire life. It’s a little bit weird and quirky, but I found myself low-key crying for the last 40% of the book. It just snuck up on me how beautiful it was!

It’s just such a beautiful story about acceptance. Not acceptance in the down-and-out kind of way. It’s acceptance of who you are, finding your family, and expanding your horizons. At the same time, it’s also about moving beyond just acceptance. In fact, a recurring theme is that you should be living, not just surviving. That’s a powerful concept.

Everyone is a little bit different, AND THAT’S OKAY. There are people who will accept you and love you. Go find those people. Another recurring theme: Your home isn’t a location. It’s who you choose to share your heart with.

I honestly cannot say enough good things about this book. This is one of those that I regret not reading sooner, but will tell anyone and everyone that they need to read it ASAP.

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